Tabs

Monday, May 7, 2012

My Kitchen's Hidden Secrets

I love the vintage look of my kitchen.

Seems to be right out of a 1930s, doesn't it?

When friends and visitors walk into this kitchen for the first time, I often get comments such as: "Where's your dishwasher? I couldn't live without a dishwasher!" Or, "All you cook with is a stove? No microwave?" Or, "Where's your trash can?" I just laugh. I don't want to live without modern conveniences either. So, I thought I'd share some of my "hiding" secrets.

Where's the dishwasher?

It's--behind the door!

Where's the microwave?

It's inside the work island!

Trash can?

Hidden in this old general store coffee bin.

Many of my antiques and collectibles are re-purposed. I have for years seen more uses in items than the obvious.
So, I suppose you could say, I've "gone green" for a long time now.

Vintage crocks become storage for miscellaneous kitchen items.

Old wooden crates are also used for storage. This one is normally covered with a cloth, but I thought you might like to see where I store John's jellies for his P, B and Js.

Speaking of wooden storage crates, wanna guess what's in these two?

The Armour crate holds everyday drinking glasses.

The tall crate on the left?

Hides a coffee pot!

And, for that coffee,

Coffee filters in a crock on top!

Can you guess where the ugly power box is located?

Check out the little hanging shelf in the corner.

Mrs. Butterworth bottles hold dish detergent and liquid hand soap.

A glass candy jar from our store keeps paper napkins handy.

A group of snuff bottles holds dried herbs and spices.

I think you're getting the idea?

Living in an historic district doesn't mean we have to sacrifice modern conveniences. With just a little imagination, we have a kitchen that fits right in with the age of the house--and leaves visitors puzzling over, "Where's the dishwasher?"
I love a good puzzle. . .

Oh my sweet goodness! I love this kitchen-- and the hidden amenities it holds! The coffee pot in a crate on the counter in 'plain view' is a very cool idea, I must say. I don't have my garbage can hidden--although I am on the look out of a disguise. One of two possibilities: 1. a two -wheeled wire shopping cart (like my grandmother used to have) 2. a wicker basket tall enough, preferably with a lid! As to the dishwasher-- I just won't have one, I prefer hand washed--but If I did! it would be hidden like yours. Right now I'm looking to hide my deep freezer in a similar way. I also am looking for a way to hide the microwave. Your kitchen has inspired me. I came to visit your blog via Cozy Little House... ~Pat

You have the most creative mind! I love this because it evokes a sense of both my Grandmother and my Great Grandmother's kitchen - and my Grandmother' cooked ONLY in cast iron. What did you do with your frig? Do Youhave it disguised as an ice box? I could sit downright now in your kitchen and feel so at home. Thank YOU!!!

I love your kitchen and the creative way you use different objects to house modern or not so pretty items in your lovely farmhouse kitchen. The bin for the garbage is wonderful. Love the soap dispensers. Thanks for sharing your hiding places. The dishwasher door is the best and something I want to copy.